Even with the miracles of modern technology, we haven’t quite worked out actual time travel. What we do have, though, is a portal through which we are able to view snapshots of the past. As an example, take Discovering Literature: Shakespeare, a new website from the British Library which makes it possible for anyone anywhere to explore the playwright’s life in context (http:// writ.rs/discoveringshakespeare). For the first time, 300 newly digitised manuscripts, books, maps, paintings, illustrations, pamphlets, ballads, playscripts and photos relating to the Bard’s life and works are available online.
Discovering Literature: Shakespeare launched in March, at a time when a survey of more than 500 English teachers showed that more than 50% of their students struggled to relate to Shakespeare. There is a cornucopia of fascinating things and stunning images contained on the site, particularly for those who are already interested in and knowledgeable about the subject. But, the way it’s presented visually is more catalogue than an immersive, interactive Pottermore-style experience (www.pottermore.com), and there’s not much to motivate young visitors to journey into its depths and discover the author.